Colne cannabis dealer spared jail by judge

A CANNABIS dealer who supplied a friend or friends has kept his freedom after a judge said his actions had not been commercial.

Alan Woods (34) had been bulk buying the drug, but since his arrest had taken steps to get his life back on track, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Woods, of Laithe Street, Colne, had admitted possessing cannabis with intent to supply. He was given 10 months in jail, suspended for 18 months, with 200 hours unpaid work and 18 months supervision.

Recorder Andrew Long told him he had had to consider very carefully whether or not he could suspend the sentence but had decided he could “by the narrowest of margins.”

The judge said the defendant had a good and productive life, it was the fist such offence on his record and he had co-operated with the prosecution.

He continued: “I am impressed by the fact you have taken active steps to put your life in order since your arrest. I want to ensure the probation service can help you remain drug-free and help get your life back on track.”

Laura Barbour, for the defendant, had urged the court to give him a chance. She said he had made significant admissions to the police and helped officers when they turned up at his home.